What is the difference between a Exotic Shorthair and a Maine Coon?

The Exotic Shorthair is 7–12 lbs sized while the Maine Coon is 10–25 lbs sized. They differ in size (7–12 lbs vs 10–25 lbs), lifespan (8–15 years vs 10–13 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, Exotic Shorthair or Maine Coon?

Exotic Shorthair is generally good with kids. Maine Coon is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, Exotic Shorthair or Maine Coon?

The Exotic Shorthair has a lifespan of 8–15 years while the Maine Coon has a lifespan of 10–13 years.

Exotic Shorthair vs Maine Coon — Breed Comparison

About the Exotic Shorthair

The Exotic Shorthair was developed in the 1950s–1960s by crossing Persians with American Shorthairs to create a Persian with a more manageable coat — essentially a "lazy man's Persian." This medium-to-large breed weighs 7–14 pounds and shares the Persian's flat face, round eyes, small ears, and stocky build. Their dense, plush coat stands away from the body like a teddy bear's and comes in all Persian colors and patterns — though it is far shorter and easier to maintain than the Persian's flowing mane.

Temperament & Personality

Exotic Shorthairs are sweet, gentle, and calm — they have the Persian's placid temperament with a slightly more playful edge inherited from their American Shorthair ancestry. They are quietly affectionate, preferring to sit near or on their favorite person without being demanding. They do well with gentle children and calm pets, making them ideal for relaxed households.

Pros

All the beauty of a Persian with far less grooming — weekly brushing suffices
Calm, gentle temperament — perfect for apartments and quiet homes
Affectionate and loyal without being demanding or vocal
Plush teddy-bear appearance is universally appealing

Cons

Brachycephalic (flat-faced) — prone to breathing difficulties, tear staining, and dental crowding
Susceptible to polycystic kidney disease (PKD) inherited from Persian lines
Eyes and facial folds require daily cleaning to prevent infections
Can be heat-sensitive due to shortened nasal passages

Love the Persian look without the grooming commitment? Find Exotic Shorthairs on Puplister.

About the Maine Coon

The Maine Coon is North America's oldest natural longhaired breed — originating in the rugged state of Maine, where it earned the official title of state cat in 1985. This giant breed is one of the largest domesticated cats in the world, with males weighing 13–25 pounds and females 8–14 pounds, and some individuals exceeding 40 inches in total length. Their thick, water-resistant double coat is longer on the stomach, ruff, and tail — adapted to harsh New England winters — and comes in virtually every color and pattern except pointed.

Temperament & Personality

Maine Coons are famously gentle giants — sociable, intelligent, and remarkably patient with children, other cats, and dogs alike. They are playful and curious well into adulthood, often fascinated by water and known for their endearing chirping and trilling vocalizations rather than typical meowing. Their dog-like loyalty, trainability, and easygoing nature have made them consistently one of the most popular cat breeds worldwide.

Pros

Gentle, patient temperament — exceptional with children and other pets
Dog-like personality — can learn tricks, walk on a leash, and play fetch
Majestic appearance with a luxurious mane and plumed tail
Hardy, adaptable breed that thrives in cold climates

Cons

Prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), hip dysplasia, and spinal muscular atrophy
Large size means higher food costs, bigger litter boxes, and sturdier furniture
Dense coat requires brushing 2–3 times per week to prevent mats and tangles
Slow to mature — takes 3–5 years to reach full size, extending the kitten-energy phase

Ready to share your home with a magnificent Maine Coon? Find gentle giants available for adoption on Puplister.

Exotic Shorthair vs Maine Coon